Comparative Political Institutions

Catalog description

The course introduces students to the comparative study of political institutions, which includes the study of formal and informal rules and organizations. Political institutions influence the behavior of citizens, voters and politicians, and ultimately the policy outcomes we observe. Students will think critically about the role that political institutions play in structuring competition for power within a polity. The course will take students through the design, maintenance and reform of political institutions. Some of the topics covered include Democracy, Autocracy & Development; Presidentialism V. Parliamentarism; Coalitions & Coalition Bargaining; Political Parties & Electoral Systems.